I tried everything to get rid of this texture that kept my highlighter from looking fleeky…. I mean, really? Can you not let my cheekbones slay? We all know where this post is going. But ill say it anyway; AND THEN…. i came across this magical ingredient deep in the burrows of my kitchen cabinet.
Using apple cider vinegar as a toner has actually done wonders for my skin and this post is to tell you all about the lovely benefits of this neglected product. I mean seriously, why don’t more people know about this?
But before I begin I must, firstly, mention that it is only useful to use raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. The brand I use is called ‘Bragg’. Secondly, it is very strong so do not use it full strength on your skin. Dilute equal parts of apple cider vinegar with water and apply on the skin using cotton pads. If you have sensitive skin it is probably best to dilute it further and increase the intensity after a few uses. In general, it is normal for it to sting a little upon first application.
Apple cider vinegar (let’s call it acv) contains alpha hydroxy acids that removes dead skin, leaving it to look brighter and more vibrant. It can be applied to age spots, even, to help them fade. It unblocks the pores and allows the skin to breathe. I have seen a significant reduction in blackheads since I started using acv.
Acv fights acne and removes blemishes. This is because acv has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. I have experienced this first hand. Every time I see a minor break out that i can feel is about to blow up into a gigantic balloon and take over my entire face, I dab it with acv and I kid you not, it is gone by the morning. This has always worked for me 100% (unlike toothpaste that does nothing…. and I honestly believe people got me to put it on my face as a joke… like ha ha you put toothpaste on your face). Majority of my blemishes have also faded away and the texture is gone (SCOREEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!).
It balances your skin pH level. This means that it balances sebum production and keeps your skin from becoming too oily or too dry. My oiliness levels have reduced significantly. Initially, I used to think it made my skin feel tight but I soon realised that was because my skin was dehydrated… not dry (side note: don’t forget to drink water. A lot of it. All day. Everyday). It can help minimise the appearance of fine lines.
Not only does acv help your skin but it also helps hair. Try adding a 1/4 cup honey with 10 tablespoons of acv and apply on the hair wrapped in a towel. It really helps with dry damaged hair and also helps to remove build up of product (that people tend to confuse with dandruff). This is because acv has acetic acid which helps remove build up.
The fact that acv removes build up also makes it perfect for cleaning makeup brushes. Using 1 cup of water, a tablespoon of acv and a slice of lemon (to remove the BEAUTIFUL smell of acv), wash your brushes and leave them out to dry.
Alternatively, brush your teeth with acv and see how it whitens them!
Other than beauty treatments, it is said that acv is consumed for weight loss (to suppress appetite and increase metabolism), boosting energy (amino acids in acv are thought to cure the build up on lactic acid in the body that cures lethargy), fading the discolouration in bruises, soothing a sore throat and preventing indigestion.
All in all, I think my point is clear. This is a miracle product. Once you somehow manage to get past the smell, you won’t regret using it.
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